Red Light Violations in Dubai: Fines, Points & What You Need to Know

Running a red light is one of the most serious traffic violations in Dubai. With advanced camera systems monitoring intersections across the city, getting caught is almost inevitable. Here's everything you need to know about red light violations.

Red Light Fine Details

Current Penalties (2025)

| Penalty Type | Amount/Duration | |--------------|-----------------| | Fine Amount | AED 1,000 | | Black Points | 12 points | | Vehicle Confiscation | 30 days |

This makes red light violations among the most severe traffic offenses in Dubai, second only to DUI and extreme speeding.

How Red Light Cameras Work

Dubai uses sophisticated camera systems at major intersections:

Detection Process

1. Sensor activation: Sensors detect when a vehicle crosses the stop line after the light turns red
2. Photo capture: Multiple photos are taken showing the violation
3. Evidence collection: Photos include timestamp, location, and license plate
4. Fine issuance: Fine is automatically issued to the registered vehicle owner

Camera Locations

Red light cameras are installed at:

• All major intersections
• High-accident areas
• Near schools and hospitals
• Pedestrian crossings

What Counts as Running a Red Light?

Definite Violations

• Crossing the stop line after light turns red
• Turning right on red (where prohibited)
• Entering the intersection on red, even if stopping in the middle
• Ignoring red arrow signals

Not Violations

• Crossing stop line on yellow, even if light turns red while in intersection
• Emergency situations (documented and approved)
• Following police officer directions

The Yellow Light Rule

Understanding yellow lights can prevent violations:

• Yellow light duration: Typically 3-4 seconds
• Purpose: Warning to prepare to stop
• Legal status: You should stop if safe to do so
• Exception: If stopping would be unsafe, you may proceed

Safe Approach

When approaching a traffic light:

1. Check your speed as you approach
2. If light turns yellow, assess if you can stop safely
3. If too close to stop, proceed through cautiously
4. Never accelerate to beat a yellow light

Contesting a Red Light Violation

If you believe you were wrongly fined:

Grounds for Contest

• Signal malfunction (documented)
• Emergency situation (medical emergency, etc.)
• Following traffic police directions
• Technical error with camera

How to Contest

1. Visit Dubai Police within 30 days
2. Request to view the evidence photos
3. Submit your written objection
4. Provide supporting evidence if available
5. Await decision

Success Rate

Contesting is difficult without clear evidence. Camera photos typically show:

• Your vehicle clearly past the stop line
• Traffic light showing red
• Timestamp and location data

Impact on Your Record

Immediate Effects

• AED 1,000 deducted (if autopay) or owed
• 12 black points added to your license
• Vehicle may be impounded for 30 days

Long-term Effects

• Insurance premiums may increase
• Halfway to license suspension (24 points)
• Record visible to future insurers/employers

Vehicle Confiscation Details

When your vehicle is confiscated:

Process

1. Police will contact you to surrender the vehicle
2. You must deliver it to a designated location
3. Vehicle is stored for 30 days
4. Storage fees apply (approximately AED 50/day)

Retrieving Your Vehicle

1. Wait for confiscation period to end
2. Pay all fines and storage fees
3. Visit the impound lot with proper documents
4. Complete release paperwork

Tips to Avoid Red Light Violations

1. Maintain safe following distance – Allows time to stop safely
2. Watch for stale green lights – Be prepared for them to change
3. Don't speed through intersections – Reduces stopping distance
4. Be extra cautious at night – Harder to judge light timing
5. Know your routes – Familiarity helps anticipate signals

Red Light Violations Statistics

Dubai Police reports that red light violations:

• Are among the top causes of intersection accidents
• Result in hundreds of injuries annually
• Have decreased since camera implementation
• Are strictly enforced without exception

Special Circumstances

Right Turn on Red

Unlike some countries, turning right on red is generally not permitted in Dubai unless:

• A specific green arrow is shown
• A sign explicitly permits it

Emergency Vehicles

You must give way to emergency vehicles, even at red lights, but:

• Move to the side, don't run the red light
• Wait for the emergency vehicle to pass
• Only proceed when light turns green

Pedestrian Crossings

Red lights at pedestrian crossings:

• Carry the same penalties
• Are monitored by cameras
• Must be obeyed even if no pedestrians are visible

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before I receive the fine?

Typically 24-48 hours after the violation. You can check online immediately after the incident.

Can I get my car back early from confiscation?

Generally no, but special circumstances (medical needs, etc.) may be considered. Apply through Dubai Police.

Does the fine increase if I don't pay immediately?

While the fine amount doesn't increase, failing to pay can:

• Block vehicle registration renewal
• Result in additional enforcement actions
• Affect your ability to leave the country

Are there warnings before intersections with cameras?

Most intersections with red light cameras have warning signs, but you should assume all intersections are monitored.

Conclusion

Red light violations in Dubai carry serious penalties – AED 1,000, 12 black points, and 30-day vehicle confiscation. The best approach is to always stop for red lights, even if you think the intersection might not have a camera.

Remember: no appointment or destination is worth risking a serious accident or these heavy penalties. Always prioritize safety over convenience.